RN certification for non-RN positions?

[ccl316]

I would like to get a job providing the most basic level of patient care, and have many good reasons for thinking that that type of work would suit me better than the sort of work I associate with RNs.

My parents aren't willing to let me get away with completing less education than is required for an RN, and I sympathize to some extent with their reasoning on this point.

SO...

Can anyone tell me, is it possible to acquire RN credentials and then, if my concerns about RN work are confirmed on the job, to accept a CNA or LPN position (both the different responsibilities and the lower pay, of course)?

My concern is to have a job that maximizes predictable routine and minimizes serious decision-making. Thanks for any input.

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

Trust me on this. You are not going to want to go through all the drama of becoming an RN and then take a CNA or LPN position which is about 10 to 15 dollar LESS per HOUR.

Don't be crazy like that. Either go for the RN and find RN positions that allow for hands-on care, and there are plenty of those types of jobs, such as med-surg, ICU, etc. etc. or stand up to your parents and live your own life as you see fit.

My advice is to go for the RN and take advantage of your parents support and get the max education you can.

Nice to meet you! Welcome and please feel free to ask any questions you have about the nursing profession.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

ccl,

First of all, I applaud your accurate understanding of the critical nature of the RNs job. Most 'civilians' have a soap opera idea of what nursing is all about. I also give you props for recognizing your own limitations - also a rare thing.

Tweety is absolutely right about the salary issues. I would also add - if you have an RN license, you are legally bound to provide an RN level of care -- no matter what 'job' you are hired into. So, you would not be able to escape RN responsiblity simply by claiming - 'that's not my job'.

However - have you given any thought to other health care disciplines if you want to work with patients? There are other disciplines who are not faced with 'life or death' decisions; with scopes of practice that are far more predictable -- such as pharmacy, dietitian or any of the therapies (physical, occupational, etc)? There are many ways to contribute - we're all part of the patient care team.